Background: Mentally retarded students represent a vulnerable population with unique health challenges, particularly in institutional or camp settings. Scabies, a contagious parasitic skin disease, and poor oral health are frequently observed in such populations due to a combination of behavioural, environmental, and systemic factors.
Objective: This review synthesizes current evidence on the prevalence of scabies and oral health status among mentally retarded students, with emphasis on findings from cross-sectional screening studies conducted at special needs camps.
Materials and Methods: Literature was reviewed using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2000 and 2025, focusing on scabies, oral health, and intellectual disability.
Results: Prevalence rates for scabies in institutionalized mentally retarded populations range from 10% to 30%, while poor oral health including high rates of dental caries and periodontal disease is consistently documented. Risk factors include overcrowding, poor hygiene, limited access to care, and lack of health education.
Conclusion: The dual burden of scabies and poor oral health in mentally retarded students highlights the need for integrated, multidisciplinary health interventions in special needs camps and institutions. Regular screening, health education, and improved access to care are essential for improving health outcomes in this vulnerable group.
